OFFICIALS from Newent Rugby Football Club have entered into talks with Newent Community School and Sixth Form Centre about the feasibility of locating the rugby club on to the school site.

The club believes that its present facilities, at the town's Recreation Ground "do not meet the needs of this successful and growing club".

The project at the school would involve building a new clubhouse and changing rooms and enhancing the existing pitches. The rugby club believes it can source the funding so there would not be any burden on school funds.

John Moore, Secretary of the rugby club, said “he was pleased with the positive response from the school management".

He added: "There appeared to be a genuine desire from both parties to make this happen. This would be a genuine partnership and would be in line with the underlying aims of both organisations to be in the heart of the community for the community and to benefit the students and young people of the community school.

"There is no doubt that the school, rugby club and community in general will benefit as a result of this project ".

Dennis Hamlen, Chairman of the rugby club, said “he was delighted at the positive way in which the school has considered the idea"

He added: "Both Newent RFC and the school are committed to improving sporting facilities in the town and I believe this joint initiative will be of great benefit to the school as well as giving the rugby club the facilities it requires “.

Mrs Kirsten Harrison, Principal of Newent Community School and Sixth Form Centre said “she welcomed the opportunity of exploring any opportunities that may benefit our students and their community”.